Company Formation in Estonia, Expert Business Setup Services
Are you considering the opportunity to establish a business in Europe 🌍 and seeking the ideal jurisdiction to register a European company quickly, efficiently, and securely? Look no further!
Start a Company in Estonia just in a few Days!
It’s incredibly easy to open a company in Estonia 🚀. Choosing this EU country for your business is a smart move, offering a range of benefits for entrepreneurs:
✅ Zero Corporate Tax on Retained Earnings: Keep more of your profits. 💸
✅ Fast and Simple Setup: Register your enterprise in just a few days. ⏱️
✅ 100% Remote: Incorporate online with e-Residency or a power of attorney. 🌐
Kickstart your EU Business with Estonia’s Unique Advantages
Setting up a company in Estonia is fast, simple, and can be completed in just one week. 🕒 As a direct and licensed service provider with no intermediaries, we offer efficient and reliable support to help you establish your business in Estonia.💡
Get In Touch With Us - Corporate Services Are Our Specialty! Send enquiryCompany Setup in Estonia: Unlock the EU Market
Estonian Company Registration - Fast, Simple, and Cost-Effective Solution
Planning to enter Europe’s lucrative EU market? Estonia, known globally as the ✅ first country to fully digitize its business environment, is your ideal gateway. Foreign companies benefit from an easy and affordable registration process ⭐, minimal company formation fees, online filing, and no special requirements.
Your new business 🦄 can be entirely established online—even obtaining an Estonian address is effortless. Say goodbye to paperwork headaches—Estonia transforms tedious bureaucracy into a smooth digital adventure! 🌐
Why Choose Estonia to Open a Business?
Estonia offers entrepreneurs a fast and straightforward company formation process 🚀, with a minimal share capital requirement starting at just 1 euro cent. ✨ New companies can be registered online and quickly, so it’s a great choice for foreign entrepreneurs and non-Estonian citizens to get access to the European Economic Area. 🌍
After registration, founders and board members can 📲 digitally sign documents and manage operations, eliminating the need for an office in Estonia or travel from their home country. ✈️
Estonia is a business friendly country, OECD and World Bank have praised this Baltic state for being open and innovative. 📈 Businesses also have simplified business banking, easy VAT number registration and full digital services, including mobile ID and Estonian ID card authentication. 🪪
Entrepreneurs worldwide can set up an account in Estonia, 📊 complete the entire process fully online, and seamlessly manage business remotely, whether it’s e-commerce or a crypto business. 👔
Top Benefits of Starting an Estonian Company
Imagine running your European business 📍 from a beachside café or a mountain retreat—Estonia makes this possible. As Europe’s digital nation, Estonia has changed the way international entrepreneurs and digital nomads work, offering maximum flexibility and innovation.
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Through Estonia’s competitive tax system and pioneering e-Residency program you can start your company entirely online, open a bank account remotely and file annual reports and tax declarations digitally from anywhere in the world.
With a transparent and entrepreneur-friendly Commercial Code, Estonia has become a hotbed for startups, especially in Web 3.0, blockchain, crypto, fintech, DAOs, NFTs, crowdfunding and DeFi. Key digital tools like electronic signatures, digital ID cards and virtual office solutions make your business life easier, so Estonia is not only a smart choice but the EU gateway for ambitious online entrepreneurs.
Key Advantages of Doing Business in Estonia
For many years Estonia is a leading country (1st place) in the International Tax Competitiveness Index and consistently ranks high in the Economic Freedom Index (8th place) and in the Ease of Doing Business Index (18th place).
Registering a Company in Estonia: The Pros You Can’t Ignore
Establishing a company in Estonia is an effective way to launch your business project and enter international markets. It helps diversify risks, reduce administrative burdens, and lower the tax load on your existing enterprise. Entrepreneurs benefit from simplified procedures, minimal additional costs, and easy access to up-to-date business licences, with no need for residence permits or physical visits.
0% Tax Rate on Retained Earnings
Company profits are not subject to corporate or income tax until distributed to shareholders. 💸 All profits can be fully utilized for business development or reinvested to generate additional income, 🚀 making Estonia similar to a tax haven. 🏝️
Minimum Share Capital is Just 0.01 €
When establishing a company, founders can set the share capital at any amount. 💰 If it does not exceed 50,000 euros, the Estonian Business Register doesn’t require proof of payment into the charter fund (no bank or payment system confirmation needed). 📄
Digital Nation, Fintech Hub & e-Residency Pioneer
Estonia’s e-Residency program and comprehensive digitization of the public sector and business environment allows foreign investors to:
✅ Register a company online;
✅ Open a bank account remotely;
✅ Use digital ID cards and electronic signatures;
✅ Manage finances and pay taxes;
✅ File annual reports and tax declarations online;
✅ Manage business operations from anywhere in the world.All these services are available seamlessly through Estonia’s state e-services on the official portal eesti.ee 🖥️, as well as other trusted government platforms like the e-Business Register and the Tax and Customs Board portal 🏛️📊.
This overview only scratches the surface of the numerous benefits associated with incorporating an undertaking in Estonia. Starting your enterprise or startup here will favorably position you compared to other alternatives and help bring your business into the legal framework of the European Union quickly.
How to Establish a Company in Estonia
Opening a company in Estonia is quick and simple regardless of your position—freelancer, startup founder, owner of an existing business. You may incorporate your entity totally online in just a few days, therefore streamlining the process and making it easily available to business owners all around.
Limited Liability Companies (OÜ or Osaühing) are the most widely used company type in Estonia. 📊 Early 2025 had over 262,000 OÜs in the country, 99% of all commercial enterprises taken all together. ✅ Perfect for businesses of all kinds, this type of entity offers flexibility, limited responsibility for shareholders, and a simple incorporation process.
OÜ – The Most Popular Legal Entity Type to Start
Startups and entrepreneurs especially respect the OÜ because of its low minimum share capital need (starting at only €0.01) and link with Estonia’s excellent digital technology, including the e-Residency program. 🚀 ✨
Setting Up an Estonian Company: Flexible Options
Depending on their preferences and travel schedule, foreign investors and entrepreneurs have many choices on how to open a company in Estonia. Either establish a business entire online, see a notary in Tallinn, or even purchase a ready-made firm. Each way has its pros, costs, and processing times:
Company Formation with e-Residency
For founding a company via the Estonian Business Register 🌐, all shareholders and directors need an e-Residency card.
Key Benefits:
✅ Totally online formation
✅ No need to visit Estonia
✅ Access to digital servicesTerm: 1 day
Price: from 375 €Company Registration in Person by Visit
This procedure involves a personal visit to a notary in Tallinn ✈️. Our lawyers will provide all necessary legal support.
Key Advantages:
✅ Personalized legal help
✅ Flexible company structures
✅ Digital service accessTerm: 1–5 days
Price: from 550 €Opening a Company Remotely by Power of Attorney
Start a company 📄 with a notarized power of attorney. We handle the company setup for you, fully remotely.
Key Benefits:
✅ No personal presence
✅ Full legal support
✅ Available to non-EU citizensTerm: 5–10 days
Price: from 900 €Purchase of a Ready-Made Estonian Company
Buy a ready-to-use company 🏠 with registration number, legal address, and documents. Fastest way to start business.
Key Advantages:
✅ Turn-key solution
✅ No incorporation delays
✅ Legally verified entityTerm: 1–10 days
Price: from 1200 €Our Pricing Plans
Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees for launching a company in Estonia. This includes a comprehensive list of costs associated with various additional corporate and legal services we offer.
Additional Corporate Services
* The cost of formation of an entity, regardless of the method, includes payment of all notary and state fees, as well as 1 hour of a legal or accounting advise. The advanced package includes legal address and contact person services for one year. The prices indicated above do not include a possible VAT.
Step-by-Step Guide to Open a Company in Estonia
Starting a business in a new country is an exciting opportunity to expand your horizons and tap into new markets. Estonia offers a straightforward and efficient process for business formation, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs worldwide.
With express company formation, minimal notary fees, and the ability to sign documents online, you can manage your Estonian business remotely, avoiding additional costs and simplifying monthly operations.
Estonian Company Formation: Everything You Need to Know
This guide provides an overview of the essential steps to establish a company in Estonia, helping you navigate the process with confidence. However, to ensure the procedure goes smoothly and to avoid potential pitfalls, it is highly recommended to consult with a professional.
Select a unique business name
Choose a name that isn’t already taken. 🏷️ It must follow local naming rules and include “OÜ” (for a Private Limited Company). Check availability in the Estonian Commercial Register to avoid conflicts. 🔍
Choose the registration method
Decide between online registration (via the e-Residency platform) or notary incorporation. 💻 Online formation is faster and allows remote management, while notary registration can be done in person or remotely with a power of attorney. 📜
Provide a local legal address
Every entity in Estonia must have a registered office address for official correspondence. 🏢 If you don’t have a physical presence, virtual office services can provide a compliant legal address. 🌐
Prepare and submit required documents
Gather necessary documents, such as the Articles of Association, shareholder details, and proof of legal address. 📂 Submit them online or through a notary, ensuring all information is accurate to avoid delays. ⏳
Register your company
Once documents are submitted and approved, your undertaking will be listed in the Estonian Business Register. 📝 You’ll receive a registration number, confirming your business is officially established. ✅
Open a business bank account
Open a corporate payment account with a local bank or an international fintech service. 💳 This account will be used for transactions, tax payments, and other financial operations. 💼
Set up accounting and bookkeeping
Arrange professional accounting services or use compliant software to meet Estonian accounting standards. 📊 Proper bookkeeping is essential for accurate tax filings, annual reports, and financial transparency. 📑
Stay compliant with ongoing obligations
Fulfill annual reporting requirements, submit financial statements, and file tax declarations on time. ⏰ Stay informed about regulatory changes to ensure your business remains compliant. 📚
Full-Scale Business Services for Your Enterprise
We offer a full range of services necessary for Estonian company registration, starting commercial activities, and further growing your business. Our corporate and support services include: professional assistance with legal compliance, accounting, and ongoing business management, all designed to help your company thrive.
Accounting Services
We offer complete tax and accounting service tailored to your company’s finances and business needs. 📊 Our accountants will help you with tax registration at the Estonian Tax and Customs Board, obtaining a VAT number and EORI number, preparing annual reports for the financial year, filing tax returns, accounting for entity’s own funds, payroll calculations, and more. 💼 Our service includes regular reporting on a monthly basis and ensures compliance with Estonian corporate income tax and withholding tax obligations.
Legal Address and Contact Person
Every entity formed in Estonia must have a legal address, whether through traditional office space or a convenient virtual office solution. 🏢 A virtual address is especially practical for enterprises without physical presence and local residents among founders or directors. It’s also recommended to appoint a contact person to handle incoming mail and official notices. 📨 We offer registered office and business address services in Estonia – everything you need to set up a company.
Legal Services
Our lawyers have extensive experience in corporate and civil law, providing a wide range of legal services. ⚖️ We offer consultations, provide legal opinions, assist in preparing necessary documentation, including corporate documents , and represent you in negotiations or court proceedings if necessary. 🖋️ We also advise on special requirements for the management board and the legal obligations of a business entity in Estonia.
Payment Account Opening
We assist opening of payment accounts with traditional banks and payment service providers (EMI or PSP). 💳 Based on your company’s operations and business plan, we will identify optimal payment solutions to streamline your banking transactions and support your business activities. Our service is available to both resident companies and foreign investors starting a business in Estonia and can be done online. 🌍
Why Choose Eesti Firma?
Eesti Firma OÜ offers complete business solutions backed by over a decade of experience in commercial law and foreign business support within the Europe. Our skilled consultants, lawyers, and accountants assure a smooth business establishment and continuous corporate services in Estonia.
- Trusted and Licensed Service Provider
Eesti Firma OÜ is a licensed company registrar authorized by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) with license number FIU000144. Our dedication to quality, efficiency, and confidentiality distinguishes us as a trustworthy partner for entrepreneurs and businesses globally.
- Proven Expertise and Strong Track Record
With a decade of industry experience, we have successfully incorporated over 3,000 businesses and assisted clients in navigating the legal and financial elements of doing business in Estonia. Our trained personnel, who include corporate advisers, graduate attorneys, and accountants, provide bespoke solutions for even the most difficult issues.
- Comprehensive In-House Services
As a straight service provider, we take care of all the details of starting a business and helping it grow without going through any middlemen. Our consultants, lawyers, and accountants are all part of our in-house team. This makes sure that we can communicate easily, provide consistent services, and work quickly.
Get in Touch for Free Advice
Are you thinking of registering a company in Estonia? Our strength at Eesti Firma is corporate services. We will closely review your business model, talk over your objectives, and suggest the most effective Estonian enterprise building option. With our help, you might simply access the European single market and benefit from simpler processes and tax advantages.
Eesti Firma: Our Mission – Your Success!
Being the CEO and business manager of Eesti Firma has helped me to understand how important it is to make the correct decisions for company development. 💡Our team is dedicated to deliver easy, pragmatic, and customized solutions for business development and management.
🌟 Our reputation is shaped by dependability, competence, and a strong awareness of Estonia’s economic scene. 🌍 Whether your company is starting small-scale locally or expanding internationally, we are here to ensure a perfect and stress-free experience.
🚀 Let us walk you through every phase so you may fully benefit from the European Union single market. Your achievement is first concern at Eesti Firma. 💼✨
Ilja Nikiforov – CEO, Eesti Firma OÜ
Contact us now for customised pricing on company establishment and continuous assistance as well as bespoke advice. We will together create the ideal plan to enable your enterprise not only to reach but surpass its objectives.
FAQ | Frequently Asked Questions
Our goal is to give you useful knowledge that will help you understand how to establish a business in Estonia and what the benefits are. You can see a list of the most common questions our experts get asked below.
- How long does it take to open a company in Estonia?
Establishing a business in Estonia doesn’t take long. Applications submitted electronically using the Business Register’s company registration portal using e-Residency must be processed within one working day. Alternatively, whether you visit a notary in person or with a power of attorney, the procedure may take up to five working days.
- Which legal form is most appropriate for opening a company in Estonia?
The Limited Liability Company (OÜ) is ideal for small businesses, digital entrepreneurs, and medium-sized enterprises. Companies must have at least one corporate shareholder and one corporate director. Shareholder liability is limited strictly to their paid-up capital contribution.
- How do I choose a name for my legal entity?
Your company name must be unique, comply with Estonian naming conventions, and distinguishable in both spelling and pronunciation. Availability can be quickly checked via the online e-Business Register.
- Do I have to pay the Estonian company's share capital?
Yes, the minimum value required is just €0.01. For share capital amounts up to €50,000, no specific documentation of payment to Estonian authorities is required.
- How can I pay the share capital?
Share capital can be paid either through cash deposited into your business banking account or through a non-monetary contribution, like property or equipment, with detailed information and scanned copies of supporting documentation.
- Can foreigners be founders and directors of an Estonian company?
Foreign nationals can freely open a company and act as corporate directors and corporate shareholders without residency restrictions, making Estonia an attractive entry point to the European market.
- How do I choose the right field of activity, and does it limit my business?
When starting a company, you must select one primary field of activity from the EMTAK classification (based on NACE). However, this does not restrict your business from operating in additional lawful sectors or offering various goods and services.
- Can an Estonian company have payment accounts in foreign banks?
Yes, your Estonian company can hold bank accounts in financial institutions outside Estonia, including banks in other EU countries or international electronic money institutions like Wise, Revolut, and Paysera.
- Where can I get my company's corporate documents?
The Estonian e-Business Register portal provides you with access to electronic copies of your company’s corporate records. You can see and download important documents including the registry card, articles of association, management reports, and memorandum of association on this site. Certified or apostille copies can also be requested if needed.
- Is it required to keep accounting records and file annual reports?
Yes, all Estonian businesses are required to to take into account all transactions and maintain accounting records. Additionally, within six months of the fiscal year’s conclusion, usually by June 30, an annual report must be filed with the e-Business Register.
- Does the business in Estonia need to register for VAT?
VAT registration becomes mandatory when the company’s average annual turnover surpasses €40,000. Obtaining a VAT number below this threshold is optional but can offer significant operational advantages.
- Do I need to pay taxes when paying foreign employees?
No Estonian taxes are due when compensating freelancers or employees residing outside Estonia. Tax obligations fall under the jurisdiction where the employee resides.
- How can I register a company online?
You can conveniently open your company online using an e-Residency digital identity, which provides access to digital signatures, electronic filing, and comprehensive digital services.
- What is e-Residency?
E-Residency offers non-residents a digital identity, enabling secure and convenient access to Estonia’s digital services, allowing for registration and management of your e-residency company entirely online.
- How can I apply for e-Residency?
Applications are submitted online with scanned copies of required identity documents, a state fee, and specific personal information. Approved applicants collect their e-Residency cards at an Estonian embassy or other designated locations worldwide.
Tax Rates in Estonia
The Estonian Tax and Customs Board oversees the administration of all taxes and government fees, ensuring effective tax collection, oversight, and adherence to ax obligations and Estonian regulations. Tax registration and filings can conveniently be completed online through user-friendly electronic services available for businesses and individuals.
Corporate Income Tax: 0% on reinvested profits, 20% (20/80 of net distribution) on distributed profits, incentivizing growth through reinvestment.
Value Added Tax (VAT): Standard rate of 22%, with a reduced 9% rate applicable to specific goods/services. Mandatory VAT registration when annual turnover exceeds €40,000.
Withholding Tax: Generally 0% on dividends, interest, and royalties paid, unless payments are directed to low-tax jurisdictions.
Personal Income Tax: Flat rate of 22% on salaries and dividends (no additional tax on dividends already taxed at corporate level). Individuals may benefit from various tax credits, reducing overall tax liabilities.
Social Tax: Employers pay social tax at a rate of 33%, directly contributing to employees’ social security benefits, including pensions (20%) and health insurance (13%).
Double Taxation Treaties: Estonia has over 60 international agreements with EU and non EU countries to minimize cross-border tax obligations for businesses and individuals.
Types of Estonian Business Entities
When starting a business in Estonia, choosing the appropriate legal form is crucial, as it directly impacts the company’s operations, liability, and investment requirements. Below is a concise overview of the available business structures in Estonia to help you determine the best option for your needs.
Private Limited Company – The most common company structure in Estonia is a Private Limited Company (Osaühing, OÜ), which is perfect for new businesses and small to medium-sized businesses. It can be set up with as little as €0.01 in share capital, and the liability of shareholders is capped at what they have contributed.
Public Limited Company – For larger companies, particularly those wishing to generate money through public share issues, a Public Limited Company (Aktsiaselts, AS) is an appropriate form. It is governed by more stringent regulations and has a minimum share capital requirement of €25,000. Large businesses find it to be an appealing alternative because shareholders’ liability is capped at the amount they invested in the business.
General Partnership – A corporate entity known as a General Partnership (Täisühing, TÜ) is made up of two or more partners who are each fully liable for the debts of the company. This structure works well for companies where all partners actively participate in management and does not require a minimum initial investment.
Limited Partnership – At least one general partner with unlimited responsibility and at least one limited partner with liability limited to their investment make up a Limited Partnership (UÜ, Usaldusühing). There is no minimum capital needed.
Sole Proprietorship – The most basic business structure in Estonia is the sole proprietorship (Füüsilisest isikust ettevõtja, FIE), which is intended for individual business owners. Due of the owner’s unlimited personal liability, business debts may be paid with their personal assets. For independent contractors and small-scale self-employed people, this arrangement is perfect.
Non-Profit Association – An organization created for non-profit objectives, like social, cultural, educational, or humanitarian endeavors, is known as a Non-Profit Association (Mittetulundusühing, MTÜ). Members cannot get a portion of the profits; instead, they must be used to further the objectives of the organization. Establishing an MTÜ does not require a minimum amount of capital.
Branch Office – An extension of a foreign business doing business in Estonia is called a Branch Office (Filiaal). It must abide by Estonian laws and regulations but is not a distinct legal entity. The parent business bears full liability for the debts and liabilities of the branch.
Company Structure in Estonia
Every legal entity in Estonia requires a defined structure, which is entered into the Commercial Register via the Company Registration Portal and clearly outlined in the company documents. Below is a detailed overview of the standard company structure components in Estonia.
General Meeting – In Estonia, the General Meeting is a company’s highest decision-making body. Its members (for MTÜ) or shareholders (for OÜ and AS) are in charge of approving important business decisions, including financial statements, structural adjustments, and management choices. Although the meeting is usually conducted once a year, special sessions may be called if needed.
Management Board – In Estonia, a company’s management board is in charge of its day-to-day operations and legal counsel. Without regard to nationality or place of residence, a entity must have at least one director, who may be located anywhere. Corporate entities are not permitted to serve as directors; only individuals (natural persons) are.
Shareholders or Members – Ownership and liability in Estonian companies depend on the entity type. In a Private Limited Company (OÜ) and a Public Limited Company (AS), at least one shareholder is required, who can be an individual or a legal entity. Full foreign ownership is allowed, and liability is limited to the share capital contribution. In a Non-Profit Association (MTÜ), governance is based on members rather than shareholders, with profits reinvested into the organization’s objectives.
